This Code has been developed by FEFCO as an official system to substitute long and complicated verbal descriptions of fibreboard case and packaging constructions with simple symbols internationally understood by all, regardless of language and other differences.

The references may be used in orders and specifications for packing cases. Additions and modifications may only be made by FEFCO.

Explanations for drawings of corrugated packaging

Case dimensions

All dimensions are expressed as internal dimensions in mm as follows:

Length (L) × Width (W) × Depth (D).
Length (L) = the longer dimension at the opening
Width (W) = the shorter dimension at the opening
Depth (D) = the dimension from the top of the opening to the base

The dimensions L, W, D are specified in each description of the case construction, for some models the numerical value of B can exceed the numerical value of L. Dimensions should be measured under standard climatic conditions, on the flat blank from the centre of crease bearing the thickness of the material in mind. For telescope-type boxes the height (h) of the upper part (lid) should be given as a fourth measurement after an oblique stroke, i.e. L×W×D/h.

For cases with overlapping outer flaps the length of the area of overlapping (o) should be given as a fourth measurement after an oblique stroke, i.e. L×W×D×o

Sheet dimensions

Unless otherwise specified, the dimensions of a corrugated sheet are expressed in mm as follows:

1st dimension × 2nd dimension
1st dimension = along the glue lines
2nd dimension = across the glue lines

Style versions

Several case types may have derived versions without the necessity to create a new style. In this case a suffix should be added to the basic style number, separated by a dash.

Example: 0201-2

A version may be unique to individual manufacturers.

Combination of types

The construction styles shown are of the basic types of fibreboard cases. If the ultimate construction is a combination of two or three basic models, e.g. flap arrangements, they may also be described as follows:

For example: Top flaps as 0204, Bottom flaps as 0215.

This type may also be described as 0204/0215 (Top flaps / Bottom flaps).

Combination of types

Styles and the manufacturers joint

The drawing style layouts as shown in this Code may need to be re-arranged depending on the Manufacturers Joint chosen. Some styles may have a Manufacturers Joint which may be glued, stitched or taped. A glued or stitched Joint may be an extension of either the short or the long panel. The sketches show how these would be indicated on a drawing:

Example for all styles:

Styles and the manufacturers joint

This applies to all designs in this Code.

Manual or Automated assembling

Each design style includes one of the following indications:

M – usually manual assembling
A – usually automated assembling
M/A – can be either manual or automated
M+A – requires a combination of both

This indications are based on current practice and are intended to give additional information to specifiers and users. Some manually erected cases can be closed automatically (e.g: 0216 or 0712).

Description of basic type groups*

*The terms Box, Container and Case are interchangeable in the context of these descriptions.

General remarks

Please note that several case designs contained in the Code under a specific number could also be classified under other basic type groups.

01 – Commercial rolls and sheets

02 – Slotted-type boxes

Slotted-type boxes consist of basically one piece with a glued, stitched or taped manufacturers joint and top and bottom flaps. They are shipped flat, ready to use and require closing using the flaps provided.

03 – Telescope-type boxes

Telescope-type boxes consist of more than one piece and are characterised by a lid and/or bottom telescoping over the body of the box.

04 – Folder-type boxes and trays

Folder-type boxes and trays usually consist of only one piece of board. The bottom of the box is hinged to form two or all side walls and the cover. Locking tabs, handles, display panels etc., can be incorporated in some designs.

05 – Slide-type boxes

Slide-type boxes consist of several pieces of liners and sleeves sliding in different directions into each other. This group also includes outside sleeves for other cases.

06 – Rigid-type boxes

Rigid-type boxes consist of two separate end pieces and a body and require stitching or a similar operation before they can be used.

07 – Ready-glued cases

Ready-glued cases consist of basically one piece, are shipped flat and ready to use by simple setting up.

09 – Interior fitments

Interior fitments such as inside liners, pads, partitions, dividers etc., whether tied to Case Design or as singular items. Any shown number of panels is arbitrary and may be increased or decreased as required.

Writing of the style code

Full code: XXXX-XXXX
Style Style version
XXXX -XXXX
The standard recognised shape/design from this code. The version number to differentiate the variation from the standard design (corresponding to an individual drawing or CAD/CAM library).

Closure of boxes

Correct and effective closure of the packages is as important as the packaging construction itself.

The following methods of closure are possible either singly or in combination:

  • by gluing, cold or hot
  • by taping
  • by interlocking
  • by stitching

Closing by taping

This can be done according to the examples shown.

Closing by taping

Closing by stitching

This can be done according to the examples shown.

Closing by stitching

Coding of interior fitments

The following range of interior fitments is coded depending on the number of panels used, in any combination of shapes (for computer systems).

Number of panels   Code
2 > 0982
3 > 0983
4 > 0984
5 > 0985
6 > 0986
7 > 0987
8 > 0988
9 > 0989
10 > 0990
11 > 0991
12 > 0992
13 > 0993
14 > 0994
15 > 0995
16 > 0996
17 > 0997
18 > 0998
19 > 0999
Coding of interior fitments